ᐅ My KALLAX scratched after a short time – is this normal?

Hello everyone,

About two months ago, I bought a KALLAX shelving unit and I’m quite disappointed: After only a short period of use, the surface shows noticeable scratches in several places. I have been very careful with the unit, not placing or rolling heavy or sharp-edged items directly on it – yet the scratches are still there.

I’m wondering if this is normal for KALLAX shelving units or if there might be an issue with the surface coating? Are there people here who have had similar experiences?

I would also like to know if there are any specific care instructions that can help protect the surface, or if some materials are more prone to damage than others.

Thanks in advance for your feedback!

Lancelot8 schrieb:
After only a short period of use, the surface already shows noticeable scratches in some areas.

Oh no, that sounds frustrating! KALLAX is generally known for sturdy shelving, but the surface is made of a melamine-coated particle board, which isn’t completely scratch-proof. For example, if you place items with sharp edges or hard objects directly on it without felt pads, scratches can appear very quickly.

My advice: try protecting contact points with felt or fabric, as that often helps a lot. And yes, the surface isn’t as durable as solid wood or metal, so don’t worry if a few light scratches show up.

You can also gently clean the shelf occasionally with a damp cloth—but definitely avoid abrasive cleaners or using too much water. This will help keep it looking nice longer. 🙂

vin_leo schrieb:
The surface consists of a melamine-coated particleboard, which is not completely invulnerable.

Exactly. The melamine resin-coated surfaces of the KALLAX are relatively easy to maintain, but they are sensitive to mechanical stress and scratches. Since the coating is thin, a sharp or pointed object can penetrate quite quickly.

Try to test if it happens in certain spots or due to specific actions. Do you sometimes use bare cups or slide books directly across the surface? Do you stack heavy items directly on it without soft padding?

A few tips from me:
- Use coasters or felt pads under full plant pots or decorations.
- Avoid working directly on the surface with pens or sharp objects.
- Clean regularly with a damp, well-wrung cloth, never scrub.

Also, I’m interested in a few more details: Is the shelf placed in a high-traffic area? Do you sometimes use the surface for activities other than storage? What do the scratches look like exactly – are they more superficial or deep grooves?

glamo schrieb:
Try to test whether it happens at very specific spots or through certain actions.

Thank you for the tips, glamo. I have been careful to avoid placing heavy objects on the surface without a protective layer. However, I sometimes use the shelf as a storage area for books, light equipment, and decorations that I change depending on the season.

The scratches mostly appear on the surfaces of horizontal panels and seem somewhat deeper than just dust marks, but not deep enough to be felt mechanically in the wood. They look more like light streaks.

I don’t work directly on the shelf, so that should be ruled out. Maybe fine particles like sand or dust cause the scratches when moving objects around?

Are there any special protective films or paints that can be applied without ruining the design? How do you take care of your KALLAX shelves to keep them intact for as long as possible?

Lancelot8 schrieb:
Are there any special protective films or paints that can be applied without spoiling the design?

Hello!

Yes, that is definitely possible. There are specially made transparent protective films for furniture that are quite thin and barely alter the appearance of your KALLAX. These films protect against scratches, are washable, and can be replaced if needed. You should look for a non-toxic, non-adhesive type that leaves no residue when removed.

If you prefer paint options, clear varnishes are one possibility, but they come with some risks: they can change the surface appearance (gloss level) and must be applied very thinly and evenly, otherwise uneven spots may appear. Adhesion is also not ideal on melamine-coated surfaces.

Otherwise, I recommend:
- Using soft pads, blankets, or table runners on the shelf
- Felt pads under decorations or stacks of books
- Regular gentle cleaning without harsh chemicals

Best wishes and good luck with your KALLAX!

Lancelot8 schrieb:
Even after a short period of use, the surface already shows noticeable scratches in some areas.

Unfortunately, this is not uncommon for this type of shelf. Just protect it a bit and handle it carefully; there’s not much else you can do.